Varicose veins can affect the legs and thighs, although they can also occur in other body parts. Weakened or damaged valves cause them in the veins that allow blood to flow in the wrong direction, causing the veins to become enlarged and twisted. Symptoms of varicose veins Upper East Side can include pain, swelling, a feeling of heaviness in the affected area and the appearance of visible veins on the skin.
When you visit your doctor for diagnosis and evaluation of varicose veins, they will likely take a medical history and perform a physical examination of the affected area. Your doctor may also order imaging tests such as ultrasound, which can help to evaluate the blood flow in your veins and identify any underlying issues.
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Causes of varicose veins
Several factors can contribute to the development of varicose veins, including:
- Age: As you age, the walls of your veins can become weaker and less elastic, making it more difficult for blood to flow through them properly.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put extra pressure on the veins in the legs and thighs, making it more difficult for blood to flow through them properly.
- Pregnancy: A growing baby’s added weight and pressure can stress the veins in the legs and thighs, making it more difficult for blood to flow through them properly.
- Prolonged standing or sitting: Sitting or standing in the same position for long periods can make it more difficult for blood to flow through the veins in the legs and thighs.
Varicose veins treatment options
Treatment options for varicose veins include:
Compression stockings
In order to enhance blood flow and minimize swelling, compression stockings are specifically made to provide pressure to the legs. They are often used to treat varicose veins and other conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, chronic venous insufficiency, and lymphedema.
Different compression stockings are available, including thigh-high, knee-high, and pantyhose styles. They can also be made from other materials, such as nylon or spandex, and come in different compression levels. Compression stockings are typically worn during the day and should be removed at night. Compression stockings can be effective in improving symptoms of varicose veins.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to treat varicose and spider veins. It involves injecting a solution (sclerosant) into the affected vein, which causes the vein to collapse and eventually fade from view. A licensed medical professional, such as a dermatologist or a vascular surgeon, typically performs the procedure.
It is considered a safe and effective treatment for varicose and spider veins, although it may not suit everyone. Side effects are usually minimal and include mild pain, itching, and redness at the injection site.
Endovenous laser therapy
Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to seal off varicose veins. It is a treatment option for individuals with varicose veins that cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, and discomfort.
During the procedure, a small laser fiber is inserted into the affected vein through a tiny incision in the skin. The laser energy is then delivered to the vein wall, causing it to heat up and collapse. The blood is then rerouted to other healthy veins.
It is advisable to consult with your doctor at Upper East Side Cardiology to determine the best course of treatment for varicose veins.
